Managed Migration

You may have heard the term 'Managed Migration' before - we've dedicated this page to let you know all about it and whether it will effect you.

Managed Migration, is the process for those of you still on a legacy benefit (Income-related ESA, Income Support, Income-Based Jobseekers Allowance, Tax Credits and Working Age Housing Benefit), to transition onto Universal Credit (UC). It's important to note that everyone will eventually be required to move onto UC.

Some of you will have to claim UC due to a change in circumstance and many of you eligible will choose to claim UC. However, many of you will be invited to claim UC - and this is what is known as Managed Migration.

Key information regarding Managed Migration

Your first thought may be: 'If I'm going to have to claim UC at some point, why don't I just claim it now?'

That is not what the Universal Credit Advisors in our Income Team would advise. You will receive a Migration Notice letter from the DWP inviting you to claim UC, and there will be a deadline date for you to apply before on there.

If you claim UC before receiving your Migration Notice, then you won't be entitled to any Transitional Protection - and you could be worse off.

Once you receive your Migration Notice, we wholeheartedly advise you to have a look at the Citizens Advice service called 'Help to Claim' BEFORE you make your claim. Please do this before the deadline on your letter, too.

It's vital that you understand that if you don't apply for UC by the deadline date on your notice, your existing legacy benefits will end.

You will also need an email address to make your UC claim and we do advise seeking help from a family member or friend if you need help setting one up. Alternatively, you can contact your local Citizens Advice office or Library.

It's also key to know that your UC award will not start until you have completed all of the details on the online claim and clicked on SUBMIT CLAIM.

Any delay in completing this process could mean that you miss out on UC, which will include your Housing Cost Element. You can get in touch with us if you are struggling with any area of the process by calling us on 03332 404 444 and speaking to our Income Team.

In the below newsfeed, you'll be able to find out more about getting ready for Universal Credit, and any useful contacts.

*The previous government wanted everyone to move to UC by 2026. This may change under the newly-elected government.